Postgraduate Studentships
Proposed Project Title: Power System Inertia Co-ordination
Principal Supervisor: Dr. Robert Best

Project Description:

With high penetrations of non-synchronous infeed, for example wind generation and DC interconnection, the all-island power system in Ireland is one of the most dynamic in the world and its study offers a unique platform for analysis and research.

One consequence is the reduction of power system inertia, which has conventionally been relied upon to stabilise frequency. To maximise the amount of renewable energy, techniques must be developed to ensure that the power system can operate effectively with high non-synchronous infeed.

This project investigates methods of co-ordinating the response from components that could provide emulated inertia, such as variable speed wind generation and battery storage, with the inherent inertial response of synchronous machine connected generation.

Objectives:

• Investigate the potential sources of power system inertia support in different future generation scenarios.
• Develop control algorithms with testing in both simulation and laboratory demonstration to both provide and co-ordinate emulated inertia.
• Analyse Phasor Measurement Unit (PMU) data captured from the all-island power system to determine the current effect of low inertia operation.

Academic Requirements:

A minimum 2.1 honours degree or equivalent in Computer Science or Electrical and Electronic Engineering or relevant degree is required.

GENERAL INFORMATION

This 3 year PhD studentship, potentially funded by the Department for Employment and Learning (DEL), commences on 1 October 2015.

Eligibility for both fees and maintenance (£13,863 in 2014/15, 2015/16 TBC) depends on the applicants being either an ordinary UK resident or those EU residents who have lived permanently in the UK for the 3 years immediately preceding the start of the studentship. Non UK residents who hold EU residency may also apply but if successful may receive fees only.

Please note: DEL awards are available for Home and EU candidates only.

Applicants should apply electronically through the Queen’s online application portal at:
https://dap.qub.ac.uk/portal/

Further information available at:
http://www.qub.ac.uk/schools/eeecs/StudyattheSchool/PhDProgrammes

Contact detail

Supervisor Name: Dr. Robert Best
QUB Address: Energy, Power and Intelligent Control
Tel: +44 (0)28 9097 4159
School of EEECS
Queen's University Belfast
Email: r.best<στο>qub.ac.uk
Ashby Building, Stranmillis Road
Belfast, BT9 5AH

Deadline for submission of applications is Friday 27 February 2015

For further information on Research Area click on link below:
http://www.qub.ac.uk/research-centres/EPIC/